I am currently taking a course with the Royal School of Needlework in the UK. The lastest project is Quilting, it is also my first attempt at quilting and so was quite exciting. The piece is small, will become a wall hanging and looks like this:

I had to use english, trapunto, italian and Kantha quilting, it was really fun to combine all of the these techniques!

If you haven't heard of these techniques before, here are some definitions for you (I wasn't sure on a couple of them!):

English quilting - This technique uses a combination of back stitch to define the main motifs, surrounded by a running stitch pattern. The running stitch pattern is not random, we had to select a traditional pattern to use.

Trapunto quilting/Stuffed - A shape/motif is worked in back stitch, the piece is turned over and the backing fabric cut. The shape is then stuffed and the hole sewn up.

Italian quilting/Corded - The technique is worked by stitching a channel, traditionally this was a running stitch, then a cord (either cotton or wool) is passed through the channels.

Kantha quilting - is a technique that comes from West Bengal. It is made up of old saris layered with other fabrics.

The layers are secured together with a running stitch, there are traditional motifs that are often included, these are usually animal or plants. If a motif is used the shape is then echoed with a running stitch as seen in the example.

If these aren't correct please let me know, then I can update my paperwork!

The English style? I don't think you mean American English, as that is not a standard here for my Southern Country farm pattern style quilts. That must mean a British style...that I can't help with. We don't traditionally use the back stitch, just an open running stitch. And the knots are hidden inside beneath the cotton stuffing.

Trapunto...you have that johnny on the spot.

Corded Italian, same thing. That is how I learned it.

Kantha...again can't help you, but it seems you have things worked out.

Let me just add that art is what you make of it. Forget the rules. If it looks good to you, it is all good.

I think you did a great job on a wonderful practice piece. I love the layering idea with the Kantha style. I will have to do more research on that.

I am glad to see you experimenting with things. You will find a system that feels right for you and your ideas, and feel free to mix them up as you like. Different projects often require different things.

Let me also add, for samples and practice...Google Teesha Moore. For her small patches. They are quick and simple, and give you the opportunity to design things, and don't take much fabric to whip up. Skip the darn rules. Do what you feel is best!

NEW REQUEST: Need quilting fabric with ONLY purple, grey, green. Solids or Prints in any combination/shades, but NO OTHER COLORS ALLOWED. HELP! They are hard to find.To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson